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National Apprenticeship Week shines a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships can have and raises awareness of opportunities available. 

Apprenticeships are a great way for people of any age to gain qualifications, get hands-on experience, and earn while they learn. Phoebe and Taylor, who are both completing apprenticeships at CHP, are two great examples of how apprenticeships can open the door to long-term success. 

Phoebe Shepherd, HR and Systems Administrator at CHP, is currently doing her Level 5 CIPD apprenticeship alongside her existing role. This is a training programme focusing on skills in areas like recruitment, employee relations, talent management, and HR strategy. 

Pheobe said: “This apprenticeship has been a key part of my career development. The next step up from my current role requires this qualification, so working towards it now puts me in a strong position for future progression. Higher‑level qualifications like this are well recognised across many organisations, so completing it supports both my growth now and my future in HR. 

“The apprenticeship route has been far more flexible and personalised, allowing the training to fit around my role instead of the other way around, and it offers the chance to learn during working hours rather than giving up personal time. 

“I’ve now completed two apprenticeships, and I can say with full confidence that they’ve been the best (and most flexible) way I’ve ever learned.” 

Taylor Finch recently joined CHP as a Learning and Development Apprentice, also in the HR Team. Sharing her experience so far, she said: “I chose an apprenticeship because I learn best by doing. I never really enjoyed sitting in a classroom. Learning and Development is such a people-focused, practical field. An apprenticeship gives me the chance to develop practical skills, earn a qualification, and build confidence in a professional setting at the same time, which is something I couldn’t see myself doing in a purely academic environment. 

“Working in a real environment has helped me build confidence because I’m trusted with responsibilities that matter. Each time I complete a task or solve a problem, it shows that I’m capable and improving. 

“My colleagues and manager have been a huge part of my development as an apprentice; from when I first started, they have treated me like a valued member of the team. They make it easy to ask questions and never make me feel like I’m bothering them, which has helped me build confidence and learn faster. I’m encouraged to shadow whenever I can, pick up new tasks, and gradually take on more responsibility as I grow.” 

If you’re interested in completing an apprenticeship, visit naw.appawards.co.uk and nationalapprenticeshipweek.co.uk to discover events happening throughout the week of 9-15 February.